U.S. patent application number 10/242333 was filed with the patent office on 2004-03-11 for wireless communications system.
Invention is credited to Javed, Shahid, Schaefer, Robert A..
Application Number | 20040046656 10/242333 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31991390 |
Filed Date | 2004-03-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040046656 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schaefer, Robert A. ; et
al. |
March 11, 2004 |
Wireless communications system
Abstract
A system for wireless communications includes multiple portable
digital devices which automatically and selectively communicate
with each other. Each portable digital device has a proximity
transceiver and an electronic memory which stores the user's
personal information and search information. During operation, the
portable digital devices communicate with each other by
transmitting signals through the proximity transceivers. A
compatibility analysis is performed to determine if their users are
compatible by comparing the personal information of each user to
the search data of the other user. If the first user's personal
information matches the second user's search data and the second
user's personal information matches the first user's search data,
both users are notified that they are compatible and information is
electronically exchanged.
Inventors: |
Schaefer, Robert A.; (San
Francisco, CA) ; Javed, Shahid; (Brisbane,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Paul K. Tomita
Dergosits & Noah LLP
Suite 1450
Four Embarcadero Center
San Francisco
CA
94111
US
|
Family ID: |
31991390 |
Appl. No.: |
10/242333 |
Filed: |
September 11, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
340/539.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G08B 2001/085 20130101;
G08B 1/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
340/539.11 |
International
Class: |
G08B 001/08 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A wireless communications system comprising: a first portable
digital device having: a memory for storing a first user's personal
information and search data; a radio frequency transceiver; and a
match indicator; a second portable digital device having: a memory
for storing a second user's personal information and search data; a
radio frequency transceiver; and a match indicator; wherein the
first portable digital device determines that the second portable
digital device is a match if the second user's portable digital
device is within the transmission radius of the first user's
portable digital device, the first user's personal data matches the
second user's search data and the second user's personal data
matches the first user's search data.
2. The wireless communications system of claim 1 wherein a first
user's contact information is stored in the memory of the first
portable digital device and if the first portable digital device
determines that the second portable digital device is a match, the
first user's contact information is transmitted to the second
digital device.
3. The wireless communications system of claim 1 wherein the second
user's personal information is transmitted to the first portable
digital device.
4. The wireless communications system of claim 1 wherein the second
user's search data is transmitted to the first portable digital
device.
5. The wireless communications system of claim 1 wherein if the
first portable digital device determines that the second portable
digital device is a match, the match indicator of the first
portable digital device is actuated.
6. The wireless communications system of claim 5, wherein the match
indicator of the first portable digital device is a visual display
which visually indicates that the first portable digital device and
the second portable digital device are matched.
7. The wireless communications system of claim 5, wherein the first
portable digital device further comprises a switch which allows the
match indicator to be reset after being actuated or
deactivated.
8. The wireless communications system of claim 5, wherein the first
portable digital device further comprises a button which controls
the match indicator actuation mode.
9. The wireless communications system of claim 8, wherein the match
indicator includes at least one of the following modes of
actuation: a visual display, a speaker, or a vibration
actuator.
10. The wireless communications system of claim 1 wherein the first
portable digital device stores the identification of the second
portable digital device in memory to avoid future matching with the
second portable digital device.
11. The wireless communications system of claim 1 wherein the first
portable digital device can only communicate with the second
portable digital device if an enabling signal is received from a
host computer.
12. The wireless communications system of claim 1 wherein if the
first portable digital device receives a disabling signal from a
host computer the first portable digital device cannot communicate
with the second portable digital device.
13. The wireless communications system of claim 2 further
comprising: a first user personal computer; wherein the first user
personal information and search data are input into the personal
computer and downloaded into the memory of the first portable
digital device.
14. The wireless communications system of claim 2 further
comprising: a server computer having a portable digital device user
profiles database; a personal computer; and a network connected to
the personal computer and the server computer; wherein the first
user's contact information is used to access the first user's
profile from the person digital device user profiles database
15. A method for matching portable digital devices comprising the
steps: providing a first user's personal information, a first
user's search data and a database containing other user's personal
information and other user's search data; searching the database of
users with the first user's search data; finding the personal
information of a second user which matches the first user's search
data; comparing a second user's search data to the first user's
personal information; notifying the first user that the second user
is a match if the first user's personal information matches second
user's search data.
16. The method for matching portable digital devices of claim 15,
further comprising the steps of: detecting the presence of a first
user's personal digital device in a defined area; and detecting the
presence of a second user's personal digital device in the defined
area; wherein the searching, finding, comparing and notifying steps
are performed by a host computer and the notifying step includes
actuating a match indicator on the first user's personal digital
device.
17. The method for matching portable digital devices of claim 16,
further comprising the steps of: resetting the match indicator of
the first portable digital device.
18. A method of matching users comprising the steps: providing a
plurality of portable digital devices each having: a memory for
storing an identification code, personal information and search
data; a microprocessor for running the operating program; a
wireless transceiver; a match indicator; and a battery;
transmitting the identification code for a first portable digital
device to a second portable digital device; determining of the
first portable digital device has previously communicated with the
second portable digital device; comparing the second user personal
data to the first user search data and the first user personal data
to the second user search data if the first portable digital device
has not previously communicated with the second portable digital
device; and determining that the first user matches the second user
if the second user personal data to the first user search data and
the first user personal data to the second user search data if the
first portable digital device.
19. The method of matching users of claim 18, further comprising
the step: actuating the match indicator of the first portable
digital device if the first user matches the second user.
20. The method of matching users of claim 18, further comprising
the step: transmitting contact information for the first user to
the second portable digital device if the first user matches the
second user.
21. A portable digital device for wireless communications with
other portable digital devices comprising: a microprocessor; a
microprocessor memory for storing an operating program, a first
user's personal information and search data; a short range RF
transceiver for receiving information from a second portable
digital device; a short range RF transceiver memory for storing
signal processing algorithms; and a match indicator; wherein the
operating program compares a second user's personal information to
the first search data or compares a second user's search data to
the first user's personal information.
22. The portable digital device of claim 21 wherein the
microprocessor, microprocessor memory, short range RF transceiver
and short range RF transceiver memory are part of a single
analog/digital application specific integrated circuit.
23. The portable digital device of claim 21 wherein the
microprocessor, the microprocessor memory, the digital signal
processor and the short range RF transceiver memory are components
of a digital application specific integrated circuit and the short
range RF transceiver is a component of an analog application
specific integrated circuit.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Radio frequency communications have existed for many years
and are now used for a wide variety of applications. Large systems
are capable of transmitting voice and digital information
wirelessly over large distances. As radio frequency technology has
progressed, the transceivers have become smaller and more energy
efficient. Personal cell phones, pagers and other radio frequency
communications devices have become well known consumer electronics.
Some personal digital assistants (PDAs) utilize radio frequency
technology to wirelessly access the internet.
[0002] Short range radio frequency communications such as Bluetooth
have been developed which have a limited communications range but
are highly energy efficient. Short range radio frequency
transceivers are used for communications between personal computers
and peripheral devices such as: PDAs, keyboards, mice, and
printers. Energy efficiency is of particular importance to portable
peripheral devices which are generally powered by rechargeable
batteries.
[0003] Some systems have been developed which allow users of radio
frequency devices having a "common interest" to communicate or
exchange information with each other. In these systems, a data
signal is wirelessly transmitted from a first radio frequency (RF)
device to a second RF device. The data signal includes encoded
information indicative of a specific interest. If the second device
determines that there is a common interest based upon the received
data signal, additional information wirelessly exchanges with the
first RF device.
[0004] A problem with these common interest communications systems
is that users are matched based only upon a common interest. The
exchange of information is not prevented between users who are
incompatible. For example, the common interest system would be
problematic if used for dating applications because it does not
take into account the users' gender and sexual orientation. Using
these common interest systems, two people having the common
interest of music would exchange information with each other even
if their gender and/or sexual orientation are incompatible for
dating. What is needed is a more intelligent matching system which
matches users based upon the compatibility of the individuals
rather than simply a common interest.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention is a wireless communications system
which allows portable digital devices (PDDs) to automatically and
selectively exchange information with other PDDs which are within
the vicinity of each other. The portable digital devices (PDDs) are
small battery operated units containing a microprocessor, an
electronic memory and short range radio frequency transceivers.
Personal information and search data for the user are downloaded to
the PDD using a personal computer or directly input into the
PDD.
[0006] The PDDs are carried by their users into areas where other
PDD users may be present. Because the personal digital devices
utilize short range radio frequency transceivers, communications
are limited to PDDs which are within the transceiver transmission
range. Each PDD runs a program which automatically initiates
communications with other PDDs within the transmission range of the
radio frequency transceiver. The communicating PDDs exchange the
personal information of their users via radio frequency
communications. The personal information of the users is analyzed
for a match by comparing each user's personal information to the
other user's search data. A match requires that the first user's
personal information matches the search data of the second user and
the second user's personal information matches the search data of
the first user.
[0007] When a match occurs the users' contact information is
electronically exchanged and stored on each portable digital
device. In an embodiment, the contact information may be used to
look up additional information about the other user on a database
or correspond via e-mail or interact on a world wide web chat room.
If the personal information of a user does not match the search
data of the other user, then contact information is not exchanged.
The personal information may include an identification code which
is stored on the receiving PDD and used to future prevent
communications with the same PDD more than once before being reset.
In some cases the memory may be insufficient to hold the
identification codes of all PPDs which had previous communications.
When the memory is full some identification codes are removed. A
"FIFO" (First In First Out) system may be used in which the first
identification codes stored in memory are the first to be
removed.
[0008] In addition to exchanging contact information, a match
indicator on the PDD is actuated which informs the users that a
person having personal information which matches the user's search
data is in the vicinity. The match indicator can be manually set to
be a light, vibration, sound or any other signal. When the match
indicator is actuated, the PDD does not communicate with other
PDDs. After being actuated, the match indicator can be manually
turned off to reset the PDD so that it can continue to communicate
with other PDDs. The PDD stores the identifications of previously
matched PDDs and prevents rematching with these PDDs. The portable
digital device may match with many other PDDs and the contact
information for each of the matches may be stored in memory.
[0009] In most situations it is desirable to contact the matched
user soon after being informed of a match, however it is also
possible for the user to deactive the indicator and access the
acquired contact information at a later time. The PDD may have a
visual display which can be used to display the contact
information. Alternatively, the PDD may be connected to a personal
computer which can download and display the contact
information.
[0010] In the preferred embodiment, the PDD is used with a personal
computer that has access to the internet and a server computer
which stores a database of PDD user profiles. Because the PDD user
database may contain confidential information, certain safeguards
may be implemented to prevent unauthorized access. The exchanged
contract information may include an authorization code which allows
access to the PDD user's database profile stored on the database.
The database profile includes additional information about the
individual which may be of interest to the matched user.
[0011] The inventive wireless communications system provides users
with a means for automatically and selectively exchanging
information with other compatible PDD users. The communications
system has a variety of entertainment, disability and business
applications which will be described in more detail.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The invention is herein described, by way of example only,
with reference to embodiments of the present invention illustrated
in the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates the four ways in which the portable
digital device may be carried by the user;
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates the variable transmission radius of the
personal digital device;
[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates transmission radius requirements for
communications between personal digital devices;
[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of the inventive system in
which the portable digital devices require an enabling signal for
communications;
[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates two configurations for downloading the
program onto a personal computer;
[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates three configurations for connecting the
PDD to the personal computer;
[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates a screen shot of an exemplary graphical
user interface for inputting a user's personal information;
[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates a flow chart of the operation of the
portable digital device in a peer to peer operating mode;
[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart of the operation of the PDD
in an enabling signal mode;
[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of the PDD operation in
which a host computer performs the primary data processing; FIG. 11
illustrates a block diagram of the components of the portable
digital device;
[0023] FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of some components of
the portable digital device which may be fabricated as one or two
application specific integrated circuits. .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The inventive wireless communications system allows portable
digital devices (PDDs) to automatically communicate and selectively
exchange information with other PDDs when the devices are within
the transmission radius of each other. The PDDs are small devices
which contain personal information about the user and search data
which is also input by the user. The PDD may be worn or carried by
a user as he or she attends social gatherings.
[0025] With reference to FIG. 1, various means for wearing the PDD
101 are illustrated. The PDD 101 is a very small device and light
weight. The small physical characteristics allow the PDD 101 to be
easily worn, carried or even integrated into various consumer
electronic devices including mobile phones, wrist watches and
personal digital assistants (PDAs). The PDD 101 may be placed
within a pendant which is attached to a necklace 102 and worn
around a user's neck. The pendant may be a sculptured piece which
is preferably made of a material which is transparent to radio
frequency waves. The PDD 101 may have a clip 103 which can be
attached to the user's clothing or integrated into a pager. The PDD
101 may be attached to a bracelet 104 which can be worn on the
user's wrist, jewelry or integrated into a wrist watch. The PDD 101
may also be attached to a waist band or belt 105 which is worn by
the user. Alternatively, the PDD 101 may be simply carried by the
user in his or her pocket or purse.
[0026] The PDD is configured to communicate with other PDDs which
are in physical proximity. With reference to FIG. 2, the PDD 101
has a specific transmission radius 201 which may extend about 30
feet from the user. The transmitter strength of the PDD 101 may be
controllable by varying the power output of the transmitter. By
reducing the power to the transmitter, the radius of transmission
of the PDD's 101 is reduced. In an embodiment, the PDD may be able
to adjust the communications range between a long transmission
radius 201, a medium transmission radius 202, a short transmission
radius 203 and a very short transmission radius 204. The longer
transmission radius 201 will be able to communicate with a larger
area of PDD users. The shorter transmission radii 203, 204 have the
benefit of lower power consumption and longer battery life. The
shorter transmission radii may also improve the effectiveness of
the PDD in a crowded space by only communicating with other PDDs in
a closer proximity to the user.
[0027] The user may control the transmission radius using a manual
switch on the PDD which adjusts the power output of the RF
transmitter. Alternatively, the PDD may include an automatic RF
transmitter power output controller which is controlled by the
number of PDDs detected. If a large number of PDDs are detected the
PDD can automatically reduce the transmission radius thereby
reducing the number of detected PDDs. Conversely, if few PDDs are
detected, the PDD can automatically increase the transmission
radius. By adjusting the transmission radius the PDD detection rate
can be regulated to a level which is manageable by the PDD.
[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates a group of PDDs 101, 107, 108, 109 some
of which can communicate with each other. If the first PDD 101 is
transmitting at the long transmission radius 201, the first PDD 101
can communicate with a second PDD 107 and a third PDD 108. The
first PDD 101 can communicate with the second PDD 107 because the
second PDD 107 is within transmission radius 201 and the first PDD
101 is within transmission radius 207. Similarly, the first PDD 101
can communicate with the third PDD 108 because the third PDD 108 is
within transmission radius 201 and the first PDD 101 is within
transmission radius 208. The first PDD 101 cannot communicate with
a forth PDD 109 because the fourth PDD 109 is outside transmission
radius 201 and also because the first PDD 101 is outside
transmission radius 209.
[0029] If the transmitter power for the first PDD 101 is reduced to
transmission radius 202, communications with the second PDD 107 and
a third PDD 108 are no longer be possible. Although the first PDD
101 is within transmission radius 207 and transmission radius 208,
neither the second PDD 107 nor the third PDD 108 are within
transmission radius 202. Communications between the second PDD 107,
the third PDD 108 and the forth PDD 109 is not possible because
none of these PDDs are within the respective transmission radii
207, 208, 209.
[0030] In an embodiment, communications between PDDs requires an
enabling signal to be received by the PDDs and each PDD to be
within the transmission range of the other PDD. FIG. 4 illustrates
a transmitter 112 which emits an RF enabling signal 113 which is
received by a first PDD 101 and a second PDD 108. The transmitter
112 may be controlled by a host computer (not shown). After
receiving the enabling signal 113 the PDDs 101, 108 can communicate
because the first PDD 101 is within transmission radius 208 and the
second PDD 108 is within transmission range 201. The enabling
signal embodiment allows communications between PDDs 101, 108 to be
controlled by a third party.
[0031] In an embodiment, the enabling signal 113 emanating from the
transmitter 112 is used to control communications between PDDs 101,
108 within a defined space 111. The transmitter 112 power output
may not be restricted by a limited electrical power supply and may
have a very long transmission radius which allows all PDDs within
the room 111 to communicate.
[0032] In another embodiment, the transmitter 112 may emit a
disabling signal 113 which functions to deactivate communications
between the PDDs 101, 108. In this embodiment, communications are
possible when the first PDD 101 is within transmission range 208
and the second PDD 108 is within transmission range 201 and a
disabling signal 113 is not received. In this embodiment the PDDs
101, 108 can normally communicate independently however,
communications can be terminated by transmitting a disabling signal
113. When the PDDs 101, 108 receive the disabling signal, they may
display a message indicating that communications are not
authorized.
[0033] Alternatively, if the room in which communications are to be
controlled is large or complex in shape or a lower transmission
radius is desired, multiple transmitters can be dispersed
throughout the room. By dispersing multiple transmitters all areas
of the room may be within the transmission radius of a least one
transmitter. The transmitters do not have to be within the
transmission radii of the PDDs to control communications between
PDDs within a defined space. The enabling or deactivation signal
allows communications between PDDs in a defined area to be
controlled by a third party. The third party may be the owner or
manager and the defined area may be a building or an open space.
The defined area may be a club having specific hours of operation.
The owner or manager can discontinue the operation of all PDDs
within the club by turning off the enabling signal or turning on a
deactivation signal. By terminating PDD communications patrons may
have an incentive to leave the club. Similarly, PDD communications
can be temporarily suspended if for example a public announcement
needs be made or in the event of an emergency.
[0034] For the PDD to perform the matching operation, the user's
personal information and the user's search data must be input into
the PDD's memory. There are various methods for transferring
information to the PDD memory. In the preferred embodiment, the
personal information and search data are loaded into the PDD's
memory using a personal computer and a data input program. The data
input program provides a graphical user interface which is
displayed on the computer screen and allows the user to input his
or her personal information and search data.
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates two exemplary configurations for
downloading the program onto a personal computer. The program may
be loaded onto the computer 115 through portable media such as a
disc containing the program. Alternatively, the program may be
downloaded from a server computer 119 which is accessible by the
computer 115 through the internet 118. In another embodiment, the
program may exist only on the server computer 119 and the program
may be accessed by the computer 115 through the internet 118 using
a web browser program.
[0036] The memory of the PPD may be limited, so it may be necessary
for the computer to compress the personal information and search
data so that it fits into the allotted PPD memory. Various known
data compression methods may be used. In an embodiment, the
personal information and search data are converted into short
digital codes which are arranged in a specific sequence or
otherwise compressed using an algorithm.
[0037] FIG. 6 illustrates three exemplary configurations for
connecting the PDD 101 to the personal computer 115. The PDD 101
may be connected directly to the personal computer 115 using a
wired cable 601. The wired cable 601 may be a USB, serial, RS-232
or any other type of cable including optical which is capable of
transmitting data between the PDD 101 and the computer 115. Power
to recharge the PDD 101 batteries may be supplied by an external
power source 114 such as an AC adapter which would plug into a
standard electrical outlet. Alternatively, electrical power to
recharge the battery may be drawn from the computer 1 15 through
the cable 601.
[0038] The PDD 101 may utilize its wireless RF transceiver to
exchange information with the computer 115. A compatible wireless
RF transceiver 116 may be attached to the computer 115 and
information may be exchanged by placing the PDD 101 within the
transmission radius of the computer's 115 RF transceiver 116. The
wireless communications have the advantage of not requiring a
physical connection between the computer 115 and the PDD 101. In
this embodiment, electrical power may be supplied to the PDD 101
through an external power source 114.
[0039] In yet another embodiment, a docking station 117 is
connected to the computer 115. The PDD 101 is placed in the docking
station 117 to connect the PDD 101 to the computer 115 and an
external power source 116. The docking station 117 may also have
control buttons which can be used by the user to initiate the
exchange of information or synchronize data stored on the PDD 101
and the computer 115. The docking station 117 is the preferred
system because it provides the simplest connection between the PDD
101 and the computer 115.
[0040] In yet another embodiment, the PDD may be a module or
integrated analog-digital chip which is inserted into a PDA device
such as a Palm, Casio, Sony or Handspring PDA. Most PDAs are able
to exchange information with a computer through a cable, cradle,
wireless infrared or RF transceivers. Some other PDAs such as the
Palm VII and Handspring Treo have wireless internet access which
may also serve as a communications connection with a computer. In
this embodiment, the personal information and search data may be
downloaded onto the PDD using any of the existing communications or
data input capabilities of the PDA device.
[0041] In an embodiment, the inventive system may be an
entertainment device used for dating by adults. The personal
information relevant to dating may include: gender, sexual
orientation, age, ethnicity, physical characteristics, education,
income, etc. The search data will include information which is
representative of the type of person that the user would like to
date and will include: gender, sexual orientation, age range,
ethnicity, physical characteristics, education, income, etc. The
search data may be the same categories as the personal information
but allow for an acceptable range in certain situations.
[0042] Because personal information and search data can be highly
confidential, an encryption or security scheme may be used to
prevent confidential information from being accessible to
unauthorized individuals. The encryption method converts the
confidential information into a format that is not easily
deciphered by an unintended recipient of the information.
Similarly, secure communication channels are not easily intercepted
by an unintended recipient. Using these known systems, personal
information and search data is protected from unauthorized
dissemination.
[0043] An example of the graphical user interface used to input the
personal information is illustrated in FIG. 7. For example, the
first input is "Status." The user can input this information by
pointing the cursor over the appropriate input "Single" or
"Divorced" or "Separated" and clicking a button on the computer's
input device. Other information such as age can by input by typing
in the appropriate number through the computer keyboard or by
clicking on a drop down menu inputs. In certain input fields, it
may be appropriate to input text to create a more detailed and
unique personal information file.
[0044] The search data inputs may be similar to the personal
information except that the search data is representative of a
person that the user is interested in dating and exchanging contact
information with. The search data is typically broader than the
personal information. For example in a dating application, the
search data inputs may be a range of ages, heights, and weights.
The search data may also include a keyword(s) which must appear in
a compatible personal information file for a match. A graphical
user interface like that used to input the personal information is
used to input for the search data.
[0045] The inventive system for matching of personal information
and search data between two individuals is a screening method which
may also be used with a database for improved search results. Many
internet dating systems exist which have accessible databases of
users which allow individuals to search through published listings
of members profiles. The profiles on the database contain detailed
text information about the member and frequently also contain a
photograph of the member. When search data describing a person is
input, the system searches the database and produces a listing of
service member profiles which meet the search data. The recipient
of the listing must then go through each profile in the listing to
determine if there is a potential match. Frequently the recipient
does not meet the requirements of the listed profile.
[0046] If the inventive search method were utilized, the user would
input both personal information and search data. The search data
would be used to extract a listing of potential matches from the
database. The system would then compare the search data of the
listed potential matches with the personal information of the user.
A final listing of matches would then be produced in which the
listed profiles met the users search data and the user met the
listed profiles search data. The inventive search system would
greatly improve the efficiency of these internet dating
services.
[0047] The same information used to create a profile for an
internet dating service can be used as the personal information and
search data of the inventive PDD. Before loading onto the PDD, the
electronic personal information and search data files may be
compressed or converted into a more memory efficient format. The
conversion accurately represents the personal information and
search data but requires much less electronic memory. The PDD has a
limited memory so reducing the size of the personal information and
search data may be required allows the information to be loaded
onto the PDD. If the PDD has sufficient memory this compression of
personal information and search data may not be required.
[0048] When using the inventive communications system in a dating
application, multiple PDD users may gather in a location. When
communications between two or more PDDs are established, each PDD
transmits the personal information to the other user's PDD. The
received personal information is compared to the search data. For
example, the first user may have the personal information and
search information listed in Table 1.
1 TABLE 1 Status Sex Ethnicity Age Height Weight Smoker First User
Single Male Hispanic 28 6' 185 lbs. Yes Personal Info First User
Single or Female Any 22-31 any 150 lbs. Yes or No Search Data
Divorced or less Second User Divorced Female Caucasian 26 5'4" 128
lbs. No Personal Info Second User Single or Male Any 24-33 5'5"-
210 lbs. Yes or No Search Data Divorced 6'6" or less
[0049] The first user's PDD transmits the first user personal
information to the second user's PDD and the second user's PDD
transmits the second user personal information to the first user's
PDD. The second user's PDD compares the first user personal
information to the second user search data and determines that the
first user's personal information matches the second user search
data in all categories. Similarly, the first user's PDD compares
the second user personal information to the first user search data.
The second user personal information matches the first user search
data in the status, sex, ethnicity, age, height, weight and smoking
categories. Similarly, the second user personal information
completely matches the first user search data. Because both sets of
personal information matches the search data, the PDDs exchange
contact information and the indicators on both PDDs are actuated.
If either user's set of personal information does not match all
categories of the search data, a match will not be established and
contact information will not be exchanged. The personal information
includes an identification code which prevents redundant
communications between PDDs.
[0050] The indicators inform the users of the PDDs that a match has
been established in the transmission proximity. Because the
transmission range of the PDDs is short, the users should be able
to meet each other. The indicator may be a light, a vibrator, a
speaker or any other mechanism which can inform the user that a
match has been detected. The PDD may be deactivated while the
indicator is on, allowing the matched users to converse without
interruption. Alternatively, the indicators can be turned off while
the PDD is still active so that the PDD can continue to communicate
with other PDDs without informing the user of matches.
[0051] The PDD operation in a peer to peer mode of operation is
described with reference to the flow chart illustrated in FIG. 8.
When the PPD is operating it scans the area for any other PDD that
are within the RF transmission range 801. The scanning can include
transmitting a communications signal and waiting for a response
from other PDDs in the area. If two PDDs are transmitting at the
same time and at the same radio frequency, a "collision" can occur
causing data communications to fail. The PDDs may have an
arbitration scheme in which the PDDs detects that a collision has
taken place and waits a predetermined period of time before each
PDD retransmits. Alternatively, collisions on a single radio
frequency may be avoided by utilizing a frequency hopping algorithm
or a spread spectrum algorithm which are known methods of
preventing communication interruptions due to collisions.
[0052] The PDD then detects if there are any devices in the RF
transmission radius 802.
[0053] The detection can occur by receiving a response signal which
includes an identification code. If the PDD does not detect any
devices in the RF transmission radiusit returns to the scanning
step 801. If other PDDs are detected in the transmission radius,
the PDD obtains the identification codes for the individual PDDs in
the transmission radius and stores the identification codes in
memory 803. The identification codes of PDD which have had prior
communications are then removed from the memory 804. The PDD then
checks the memory to determine if there are any remaining PDD
identification codes 805. If there are no identification codes in
memory, the PDD goes back to the scanning step 801.
[0054] If there are PDD identification codes in memory, the PDD
establishes communications with one of the PDDs in memory (local
PDD). The PDD transmits the user's personal information to the
local PDD and the PDD receives the local PDD's personal information
806. The PDD compares the local PDD's personal information with the
PDD's search data and similarly the local PDD compares the PDD's
personal information with the local PDD's search data 807. If the
local PDD's personal information matches the PDD's search data and
the PDD's personal information matches the local PDD's seach data,
the PDD and the local PDD are "matched." If there is a match, the
match indicators of the PDD and local PDD are actuated and contact
information for the matched PDDs can be wirelessly exchanged 808.
If the local PDD's personal information does not match the PDD's
search data or the PDD's personal information does not match the
local PDD's search data, a match is not established. If a match is
not established, the PDD does back to the scanning for PDDs in the
transmission radius step 801.
[0055] In a different embodiment, communications between PDDs
requires a host computer which can individually control the
communications of each PDD within a specific area. The host
computer also has access to a database which stores the personal
information and search data for each PDD user. In this embodiment,
the user can wirelessly download the personal information and
search data from the area computer and does not have to store the
personal information or search data on the PDD. This embodiment may
utilize multiple host computers each storing different personal
information and search data for a user. The different personal
information and search data files allows the user to have a first
set of personal information and search data for a first venue and
have a completely different set of personal information and search
data for a second venue. If the user's electronic files are not
stored on the host computer database, the default personal
information and search data stored on the PDD may be used.
[0056] FIG. 9 is a flowchart which describes the operation of the
PDD in the area computer embodiment. The PDD first scans for the
enabling signal 821 which is transmitted by the area computer. This
process may include monitoring the PDD transceiver for the enabling
signal 822. If the enabling signal is received the PDD transmits an
identification code to the area computer. The area computer
responds to the identification code by transmitting the user's
personal information and search data to the PDD 823. The area
computer then determines if the PDD is authorized to communicate
824. A PDD may fail to be authorized for various reasons including
a failure to pay service billings and abuse of the system rules. If
the PDD is not authorized, an authorization failure signal is
transmitted to the PDD and an indication of authorization failure
may be displayed by the PDD 825.
[0057] After authorization, the PDD can scan the area for other
PDDs as previously described 826. The PDD then determines if there
are any PDDs detected in the transmission radius. 827. Once one or
more PDDs are detected in the transmission radius (local PDDs), the
identification codes of the PDDs are placed in memory 828. Any PDDs
which have had prior communications are removed from memory 828.
The PDD determines if there are any identification codes in memory
829. If there are no identification codes in memory, the PDD goes
back to the enabling signal step 821.
[0058] If identification codes are in memory, the PDD transmits the
user's personal information to one of the local PDDs in memory and
receives the local PDD's personal information 830. A match analysis
is performed by both the PDD and the local PDD to determine if the
personal information matches the search data 831. If there is a
match, the match indicators are actuated on both the PDD and the
local PDD and contact information is wirelessly exchanged by the
PDD and the local PDD 832. The users of the matched PDDs may be
notified of each other's presence and meet in person. After the
match indicator is actuated, the PDD must be manually reset to go
back to the scan for enabling signal step 833. Alternatively, the
match indicator can be deactivated so that the PDD is in a silent
mode.
[0059] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate exemplary methods of operation for
the PDD. Various changes can be made to the operating processes
without exceeding the scope of the invention. The transmission of
information between the PDDs can be performed in several different
ways while still achieving the desired analysis. For example, the
search data can be exchanged by the PDDs rather than personal
information. Alternatively, one PDD can transmit both the personal
information and search data to the other PDD which can perform the
entire matching analysis alone.
[0060] In yet another embodiment, a host computer controls the
communications between PDDs and performs all of the match
computations for each of the PDDs in the area. The area computer
then transmits the identifications codes for matched PDDs to the
PDDs. Because PDDs are continuously entering and exiting the venue,
the area computer continuously updates the matched PDDs and
transmits updated match information to the PDDS. This configuration
has the benefit of removing the match analysis processing
requirements from the PDDs and allows the area computer to monitor
the communications between the PDDs.
[0061] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of the area computer match
processing embodiment. The PDD enters an area monitored by the area
computer and scans for an enabling signal 841. The PDD then detects
the enabling signal 842. If the enabling signal is detected, the
identification code for the PDD is transmitted to the host computer
843. The host computer receives the identification code and
determines if the PDD is authorized to communicate with other PDDs
844. If the authorization is not granted, a failed authorization
signal is transmitted to the PDD 845. Once authorized, the host
computer performs a match analysis comparing the personal
information to search data between the PDD and all local PDDs
detected in the area 846. The host computer continuously performs
the analysis and transmits the matched PDDs identification codes to
these PDDs.
[0062] If a match is detected by the host computer, the PDD
receives the identification codes of the matched PDDs and places
them in memory 847. The identification codes for PDDs which have
previously been communicated with are removed 848. The PDD
determines if there are any identification codes in memory and if
any of the PDDs associated with the identification code are also
within the transmission radius 849. If none of the PDDs associated
with the identification codes in memory are within the transmission
radius, the PDD goes back to the enabling signal scanning step 841.
If there is an identification code in the memory which is within
the transmission radius, the match indicators of the matched PDDs
are actuated and contact information is exchanged 850. The matched
PDD users are informed of each other's presence and can meet face
to face. The PDD can be manually reset 851 in order to get back to
the scan for enabling signal step 841 after the match indicator is
actuated.
[0063] For all described modes of operation the PDD requires the
same basic components. An exemplary block diagram of the PDD
components is illustrated in FIG. 11. The PDD has central
processing unit (CPU) 129, ROM memory 135 and RAM memory 128 which
store an operating system program, the personal information and
search data for the user. The ROM 135 may be connectable to a flash
memory socket, which would allow the PDD to store information on
and retrieve information from commonly available flash memory
devices 136. Commonly available flash memory devices 136 include:
memory stick, compact flash, smart media, and secure digital
device. The personal information, search data and retrieved contact
information can be transferred between the PDD and the personal
computer through the removable flash memory 136 alone without the
need for the PDD 101 to communicate directly with the personal
computer.
[0064] The CPU may be connected to an I/O port 125, a user I/O
select unit 126, a user visual display unit 127, an RF unit 133 and
a match indicator unit 132. The I/O port 125 is used to communicate
and exchange information with the computer. Typically, the I/O port
125 utilizes a wired connection which is described in reference to
FIG. 6. The I/O select unit 126 allows the user to manually control
the operation of the PDD 101. The I/O select unit 126 can include:
an on/off button, a reset button for turning off the match
indicator and restarting the scan process, or a match indicator
mode button.
[0065] Alternatively, the I/O port 125 may be part of the docking
station embodiment described with reference to number 117 of FIG. 6
and not a component of the PDD 101. In this embodiment, because the
I/O port is no longer a component of the PDD 101, draw power is not
drawn from the power supply 130. The system bus of the PDD 101 is
connected to the docking station I/O port through hot insert
buffers which allow the PDD 101 to be connected to the computer
while a voltage is applied to the electrical contacts.
[0066] The PDD 101 may also include a visual display unit 127 which
can be an light emitting diode or a liquid crystal alphanumeric
display which can display text information from the PDD, a matched
PDD or an area computer. The match indicator unit 132 can include
various indicator components including: a vibrator, light, speaker,
visual display or any other device which may notify the user of a
match. The RF unit 133 is a proximity transceiver which can be used
to communicate with: other PDDs in the area, personal computers and
host computers having compatible RF transceivers. The components of
the PDD 101 receive electrical power from a power supply 130, which
is preferably a rechargeable battery.
[0067] FIG. 12 is a more detailed block diagram of an embodiment of
the PDD 101 wherein the RF unit 140, CPU 150, input/output 153 and
memory 147, 148, 151, 152 are built into a single mixed
analog-digital application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 137
having an analog section 138 and a digital section 139.
Alternatively, the RF unit analog section 138 may be fabricated on
one chip and the CPU, RAM, ROM digital section 139 may be on a
separate chip.
[0068] The analog section 138 has a radio unit 140 having an RF
receiver 141 for receiving RF input signals 143 and an RF
transmitter 142 for transmitting RF output signals 144. Power to
the analog section 138 is controlled by a voltage regulator 145.
The analog section 138 may also utilize a clock synthesizer 146 for
RF signal processing. In an embodiment, the analog section 138 may
communicate with the digital section 139 through a digital signal
processor (DSP) 149. The DSP 149 converts the analog signals into
digital signals alternatively a analog/digital converter may be
used. The DSP 149 has access to RAM 147 and ROM 148. Algorithms may
be used to convert the analog signals to digital signals, perform
error checking and correction as well as remove noise from the
analog signals . The algorithms are stored in the ROM 148 and
loaded into RAM 147 when needed by the DSP 149 for analog signal
processing. When improvements to the algorithms are made the ROM
148 can be reflashed to load the new algorithms and keep the PDD
101 up to date with the latest software requirements and RF
communications protocols.
[0069] In an embodiment, the digital signals from the DSP 149 are
processed by a microcontroller unit (MCU) 150. As discussed, PDD
performs various functions such as scanning for other PDDs/enabling
signal, transmitting identification information, receiving personal
information, communicating with a host computer, comparing personal
information to search data, actuating the match indicator when a
match is detected. The MCU 150 performs these tasks using programs
stored in the RAM 151. Again, the programs are loaded into the RAM
151 from the ROM 152 and software updates can be loaded into the
PDD by reflashing the ROM 152.
[0070] The I/O 153 may act as an interface between the DSP 149 and
the MCU 150. As discussed, the I/O 153 can receive instructions
from the user select unit and display information on the user
visual display unit. The I/O 153 can also actuate the match
indicator. The integration of the analog and digital sections of
the device into one or two ASICs will minimize the size and
simplify the construction of the PDD 101.
[0071] As discussed, when the personal information of the users
matches the search data, the match indicators of the PDDs are
actuated. The PDD match indicators can have several modes of
operation which may be controlled by the user. These modes of
operation may include: ghost, blink, vibrate, random and cloak.
Each mode has distinct characteristics which may be selected
depending upon how the user would like to use the PDD. When the PDD
is matched in ghost mode, the contact information is wirelessly
exchanged, but the indicator is not actuated to immediately inform
the user of a match.
[0072] When the PDD is matched in the blink mode, contact
information is wirelessly exchanged, a vibrator may be actuated and
a light on the matched PDD is illuminated. The illuminated light
can be seen by the user of the PDD as well as the matched PDD user.
The lights of the matched PDDs may be coordinated so that they
blink at the same frequency or are the same color so that the
matched PDDs can more easily locate each other.
[0073] When the PDD is matched in vibrate mode, contact information
is wirelessly exchanged and a mechanical vibrator in the PDD runs.
The vibration notifies the wearer that a match has been detected
but people around the user will not know that the user's PDD
indicator has been actuated. In an embodiment, the light or
vibration indicators are only actuated when they are within a
predetermined proximity of the matched PDD and are deactivated when
the distance between the matched PDDs exceeds the predetermined
distance. If the matched PDD come within the predetermined
distance, the match indicators are reactivated. The intermittent
actuation of the match indicator is terminated when the PDD is
reset or the match indicator is turned off.
[0074] When matched in random mode, the seach data is of the PDD is
removed and the PDD is matched when any other PDDs in the
transmission radius which are also in random mode is detected. The
indicators of the random mode PDDs are actuated when a random match
is detected. The contact information may or not be exchanged.
[0075] When matched in the cloak mode, the user's PDD can detect
matched PDDs that are not in cloak mode but the other PDDs cannot
detect the user. The user can receive contact information from the
matched PDD which is not in cloak mode, but the other PDD does not
receive the contact information of the cloaked PDD. Similarly, the
indicator on the cloaked user's PDD may actuate to inform the user
of a match, but the other matched PDD's indicator is not actuated.
Table 2 provides a chart of the possible PDD responses to being
matched.
2 TABLE 2 Cloak Ghost Vibrate Blink Random Contact Information Yes
Yes Yes Yes No Received From PDD's Not In Cloak Mode Contact
Information No Yes Yes Yes No Transmitted Match Indicator Optional
No Vibration Light & Yes Vibration
[0076] Because of the varied responses to a match, some modes of
operation are incompatible with other modes. For example, two PDDs
in cloaked mode without the light or vibration enabled may be
matched but there may be no resulting interaction because contact
information is not transmitted and the indicators have been
disabled.
[0077] In the preferred embodiment, the user can use the contact
information to obtain additional information about the matched
users through a PDD user database which is accessible through an
internet connection. As discussed, the PDD has a limited memory
which may be insufficient to store a significant quantity of
information. In order to obtain additional information about the
matched users, the PDD must be connected to the computer. A program
automatically extracts the contact information collected in the
PDD's memory. The program accesses the server computer through the
internet and obtains access to the matched user's files using the
contact information. The user files in the database may include
more details about the matched user. This additional information
may include: a photograph and a detailed personal description
written by the user. Because these characteristics are unique to
each user, it may be difficult to compress this information to a
size which is easily transmittable or stored on the PDD memory.
[0078] Certain personal information may be confidential which is
only accessed with the user's express permission. In this
embodiment, the confidential personal information is stored in a
more secure database. When another user attempts to access the
confidential personal information, a message is transmitted to the
person associated with the confidential personal information
informing the user that access is being requested and identifying
the requester. The user can either grant or deny access to the
requester. Only if access is granted will only the requestor be
permitted to access the confidential personal information. If
access is denied, the computer transmits a message to the requestor
indicating that access to the confidential personal information has
been denied.
[0079] Because the computer acts as a conduit for all
communications in some embodiments, certain PDD user personal
information may be monitored and analyzed by the computer. For
example, the computer may be able to monitor specific demographics
of the patrons. By compiling the demographic information, customer
profiles can be generated for venues including: age range, gender,
and interests. The analysis of the information can also be used to
determine the effectiveness of the system by determining the total
number of users in an area and the number of resulting matches. The
computer analysis may be useful as a marketing tool to monitor
business clientele and improve the knowledge of the target market.
The information can also be made available over the internet
allowing internet users access to a detailed description of the
club's clientele.
[0080] The transmitted identification signal can also used by the
computer to determine the presence of a specific individual. In an
emergency situation, the computer can indicate whether a specific
individual is in the area and transmit a signal to the individual's
PDD which notifies the user that he or she is needed.
[0081] Various other useful embodiments of the inventive system are
available. The PDDs can be used to detect the presence of a
specific individual which may be useful when it is necessary to
meet a specific person(s) in a crowded space or on a blind date. In
this embodiment or mode, the PDDs are loaded with unique personal
information and search data which prevents matching with normal PDD
users. The match indicators will only be actuated when another PDD
with the unique personal information and search data are in the
transmission radius.
[0082] The inventive system may also be used by visually or hearing
impaired individuals to detect other PDD users. For example, a deaf
person's PDD may have the match indicator set to vibrate or light
and have personal information and search data which includes the
deaf characteristic. When another deaf person comes within the
transmission radius, the match indicator is actuated informing the
user that another deaf person is in the vicinity.
[0083] In another embodiment, the inventive system can be used by
blind individuals to detect the presence of friends. The PDD can be
configured to actuate the match indicator when a friend is detected
in the vicinity. The blind individuals and their friends may
configure their PDDs in the meeting mode described above. The
inventive system allows the physically impaired to discretely
detect the presence of friends or others PDD users having a similar
impairment.
[0084] In the foregoing, a wireless communications system has been
described. Although the present invention has been described with
reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be evident
that various modifications and changes may be made to these
embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of
the invention as set forth in the claims. Accordingly, the
specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative
rather than a restrictive sense.
* * * * *